Accessing Support

Each student is allocated a personal tutor work with them throughout their course. This is usually a member of the programme team for your degree. They are you contact for pastoral support within the University and you are encouraged to make contact with them within a month of starting University. In most cases you will have the same personal tutor throughout the length of your course and should consider them an ally. Find out more about the role of personal tutors at University of Cumbria.

Module tutors are the experts in the subject that you are studying for that specific topic. You should consult them if you are struggling with the academic content of the module. It is possible that if you are finding difficulties with a topic, that others in your class may be in exactly the same situation. So, talk to your peers and consider speaking to module tutors together or send feedback through your course rep.

The Skills@Cumbria team are experts in finding information and developing student academic skills. The first place to look is the Skills@Cumbria website, which offers a range or resources on all the key academic skills you might encounter. Browsing the relevant page might be enough to resolve any query. We have a range of study skills courses called Head Start. These are targeted at specific levels of study. So, if you are receiving feedback on a specific topic, this is a good option. Our libraries stock a range of print books, plus you will have online access to ebooks and journals dedicated to your academic and study skills. The team are also available to offer further support and appointments to individuals and small groups online and via email. You can also attend our webinars. 

Part of the experience of being a university student is meeting and getting to know new people. They have the unique insight of sharing this experience with you. We would encourage everyone to get to know others on their course and set up study and social groups where possible. Our working with others page offers ideas and suggestions. You could also get involved with the Students' Union clubs and societies or other clubs within the university.  

Within the university there are a range of teams available to you as students of the university. These include Student Support, Disability and Specific Learning Difficulties, Careers, Health and Wellbeing and the Students' Union. Accessing support from the right person at the right time is the mark of a successful student. We would encourage everyone to be proactive and seek out assistance when relevant.